South Africa won a high-scoring and, at times, unbelievable second ODI with plenty of quirks and drama.
Image Copyright – Steve Haag Sports
Both sides are yet to produce their best cricket, but the matches have been enthralling affairs.
South Africa vs Pakistan | Wednesday 7 April 2021 | The Wanderers, Johannesburg | 10:00
To Win Match
South Africa 11/10
Tie 25/1
Pakistan 77/100
South Africa
The Proteas made heavy weather of defending a massive total, Andile Phehlukwayo still looks to be the best at bowling the death overs, however.
A big positive to take from the match was the form of the top-order with four batsmen notching half-centuries in the winning effort at the Pink ODI.
With the series still on the line, we are unlikely to see too many changes which means the likes of Kyle Verreynne will miss out unless Heinrich Klaasen is rotated out. An injury to Quinton de Kock’s finger might see either of the two men assume the gloves and could be the Cobras’ batsmen’s route in.
The Proteas seamers are struggling for rhythm and would like to get as many overs under their belts as possible, which should see Lizaad Williams and Daryn Dupavillon excluded from the shake-up.
Pakistan
Pakistan very nearly pulled off an incredible chase despite being 7 down for a little over 200 in the match at the Wanderers, but they will rue some small mistakes.
One of those was in the dismissal of Fakhar Zaman who hit 193, the second-highest score in a losing run-chase. Fakhar Was run out trying to squeeze two but might have been done in by a cheeky misdirect from De Kock. Pakistan gave him too much to do, but a warning shot has been fired.
Haris Rauf is having a good series with the ball, keeping the Proteas guessing. He will be the dangerman in their attack amid a number of quality bowlers.
Spin hasn’t really been a factor in the series so far, but Pakistan’s slow bowlers might turn learnings from the first two ODIs to give the tourists an edge.
Verdict: South Africa 11/10
After getting the win in match two, the Proteas should close this out.
Written by James Richardson.
